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Contents
  • When Does Menopause Happen?
  • Common Symptoms and Changes
  • Managing Menopause
  • Long-Term Health Considerations

Menopause 101: What Every Woman Should Know

Menopause 101: What Every Woman Should Know

The Change Explained

Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Understanding what to expect can help you navigate this transition with confidence.
Contents
  • When Does Menopause Happen?
  • Common Symptoms and Changes
  • Managing Menopause
  • Long-Term Health Considerations

When Does Menopause Happen?

The average age of menopause is 51, but it can occur between 45-55. Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 months without a period. The years leading up to menopause, called perimenopause, can last 4-8 years and bring changing symptoms.

Common Symptoms and Changes

Hot flashes affect up to 85% of women, often disrupting sleep. Other symptoms may include mood swings, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and joint pain. Bone density begins to decline more rapidly after menopause, increasing osteoporosis risk.
Menopause is a natural biological process that signifies the end of a woman's reproductive years, typically diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

Managing Menopause

Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction can help manage symptoms. For moderate to severe symptoms, hormone therapy may be an option for some women. Non-hormonal medications and treatments are also available.

Long-Term Health Considerations

Post-menopause, women have increased risk for heart disease and osteoporosis. Regular check-ups, a heart-healthy lifestyle, and bone density screening are important. Discuss preventive strategies with your healthcare provider.

FAQs

Is menopause a disease?

No, it's a normal part of aging.

How long do symptoms last?

They can persist 4-5 years on average, but vary widely.

Do all women need hormone therapy?

No, it's an individual decision based on symptoms and health risks.

Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Yes, contraception is needed until menopause is confirmed.

Does menopause cause weight gain?

Hormonal changes can contribute, but it's not inevitable.

Embracing Change

While challenging, menopause is an opportunity for renewed focus on health and well-being.
Discuss your menopause journey and management options with Doctronic to create a personalized plan.
Additional References
  1. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 141: management of menopausal symptoms. Obstet Gynecol 2014; 123:202. Reaffirmed 2018.
  2. Santoro N, et al. Menopausal Symptoms and Their Management. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2015; 44:497-515.
  3. Stuenkel CA, et al. Treatment of Symptoms of the Menopause: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2015; 100:3975.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.